Irish Legends

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A mythic journey through the Emerald Isle

Delve into Ireland and its past on this tour, which mixes in plenty of hidden gems and off-the-beaten-path sights among the tried-and-true favorites.

Trip details

Tour start Dublin

Tour end Dublin

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Tour Highlights

Cliffs of Moher

Feel the thrill as you take in the awe-inspiring beauty of the Cliffs of Moher, where dramatic sea cliffs tower 700 feet above the Atlantic Ocean, stretching for miles along County Clare's Wild Atlantic Way. With panoramic coastal views of the Aran Islands and Galway Bay, this iconic landmark showcases Ireland at its most spectacular.

Aran Islands

Discover Inishmore, the largest of the Aran Islands off Ireland's west coast, where old Irish traditions, ancient forts, and rugged stone walls remain wonderfully preserved. These remote islands offer a memorable glimpse into Ireland's cultural heritage and timeless way of life.

Irish National Stud & Gardens

Some of world’s greatest racehorses have been bred and raised at The Irish National Stud in County Kildare, in the heart of Ireland’s horse country. Go behind the scenes of Ireland's legendary thoroughbred industry, then explore the stunning Japanese Gardens and peaceful St Fiachra's Garden.

Dun Aengus Fort

Perched dramatically above the Atlantic Ocean on Inishmore in the Aran Islands, Dun Aengus is one of Europe's most spectacular prehistoric stone forts. Take in the breathtaking views from its cliffside location as you contemplate this remarkable glimpse into Ireland’s ancient past.

Dunbrody Famine Ship

Irish people left their homes by the thousands during the Great Famine, boarding ships like the Dunbrody for new lives in North America and elsewhere. The Dunbrody Famine Ship in County Wexford explores the story of this emigration, with interactive exhibits providing poignant insight into one of Ireland’s defining historical events.

Irish Night at the Abbey Tavern

The Abbey Tavern in the scenic seaside suburb of Howth offers one of Dublin's most beloved evenings of traditional Irish entertainment. Enjoy spirited music, captivating dancing, and authentic Irish cuisine as you experience a cherished cultural tradition.

Blasket Centre

Overlooking the dramatic Dingle Peninsula, the Blasket Centre brings to life the history, language, and traditions of the Blasket Islands. Interactive exhibits and stunning Atlantic views make this one of Ireland's most rewarding cultural attractions.

Jameson Experience, Midleton

Step into the historic Midleton Distillery in County Cork and discover centuries of Irish whiskey-making tradition. On a guided experience, you’ll learn how this legendary site became home to some of Ireland’s most celebrated whiskeys, with tastings along the way.

Itinerary

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Day 1Dublin Arrival & Experience Glasnevin

Your tour departs at 2:00 PM from Clayton Hotel Cardiff Lane. Start your vacation with a visit to Experience Glasnevin. Ireland’s national cemetery tells the story of modern Ireland, with legendary leaders, daring revolutionaries, and brilliant writers resting among 1.5 million souls. Enjoy a welcome drink with your group at your hotel. The rest of your evening is free to explore and dine as you wish.

Day 2National Stud & Kilkenny Walk

Visit the home of equine royalty: the Irish National Stud in Kildare, the heart of Irish horse racing. Some of the world’s finest thoroughbreds live in these beautiful surroundings. Walk through the gardens before traveling on to Kilkenny, where you’ll enjoy lunch at the Kilkenny Design Centre. Take a walking tour with a local guide to see the gems along the Medieval Mile, a stretch of city streets from cathedral to castle, with buildings dating back as far as the 13th century. Dine independently and explore as you wish this evening. (B, L)

Day 3House of Waterford Crystal & Dunbrody Famine Ship

Visit the House of Waterford Crystal, a CIE Tours preferred shopping partner; see skilled artisans create crystal masterpieces on a factory tour. Then join a local guide for a walking tour of Waterford; discover the history of this port city, the oldest in Ireland, and its many colorful characters. Take time to explore independently. In New Ross, you’ll visit the Dunbrody Famine Ship, a replica of a vessel that in the 1840s brought desperate emigrants fleeing famine to new lives in North America. Return to your hotel for dinner. (B, D)

Day 4Midleton Distillery & Blarney Castle

Tour the renowned Midleton Distillery, and immerse yourself in the rich history, craftsmanship, and taste of Irish whiskey. This iconic site celebrates 200 years of Jameson’s heritage in beautifully restored buildings and modern facilities. At Blarney Castle, kiss the famous stone or stroll through the spacious parklands to view Blarney House before traveling to your hotel, where you’ll dine with your group. (B, D)

Day 5Dingle Peninsula & Blasket Centre

Visit Moriarty’s, a CIE Tours preferred shopping partner, in the beautiful Gap of Dunloe. Then discover the glorious south shore of the Dingle Peninsula with views of heathery mountains, sandy stretches of beach, and rocky headlands. At the Blasket Centre, learn about remote islanders who lived traditionally and spoke the Irish language until they were evacuated in 1953, leaving an extraordinary literary legacy behind. Browse around the town of Dingle and enjoy a drink, dinner and entertainment at Foley’s Bar and Restaurant. (B, D)

Day 6Cliffs of Moher & Galway

Ferry across the River Shannon before driving to the Cliffs of Moher, soaring 700 feet above churning Atlantic swells. Walk along the top of the cliffs; on a clear day you can see great views of Galway Bay and the Aran Islands. Take in a sheepdog demonstration to see highly skilled dogs work with farmers to herd their flock. Savor homemade scones with tea before heading to Galway for a panoramic city tour and then dinner at your hotel. (B, D)

Day 7Aran Islands & Dun Aengus

Set out on a ferry across Galway Bay for Inishmore, the largest of the three Aran Islands. The hardy islanders still speak the Irish language and maintain traditional fishing and farming methods. Visit Dun Aengus, a huge pre-historic fortress perched on sheer cliffs above the Atlantic. Relax with a casual lunch in Kilronan, the island’s main village, followed by free time for exploring before returning by ferry. (B, L)

Day 8River Shannon Cruise & Abbey Tavern

Travel through the midlands to Shannonbridge for a scenic cruise on the River Shannon. Continue on to Dublin for free time before an evening in the seaside suburb of Howth, where you’ll be treated to a lively show of traditional music, song, and dance over dinner. (B, D)

Day 9Independent Dublin Sightseeing

Sightsee for the day in Dublin independently on the Hop-On, Hop-Off bus tour and a visit to your choice of one of Dublin’s top attractions: Guinness Storehouse, Teeling Whiskey Distillery, EPIC The Irish Emigration Museum, Jameson Distillery Bow St. Experience, or the GPO Museum. (B)